As kids make their holiday wish list, you're likely to see some big-ticket tech items on it.
One big gift kids always want, and sometimes need, is a cell phone.
There are many things buyers should consider before going out and buying the latest iPhone as a gift.
A mobile phone is practically an extra appendage for all of us now, especially kids and teens. With complicated schedules and after school activities, it's just as important for parents to be able to get ahold of their kids.
Elementary Students
"For the younger kids, there are these great wearable devices for younger kids that Verizon makes called the Gizmo Watch," said lead PCmag.com analyst Sascha Segan. "It lets them stay in touch with their parents and caregivers but not make and receive phone calls from arbitrary people."
He also recommends the Relay from Republic Wireless. Basically, it's a walkie-talkie that works off your phone service and limits who can contact your child.
Middle School Students
It's the middle school age where buyers need to get a bit more sophisticated, but not break the bank.
"I am seeing that depending on your social circle, around seventh grade does appear to where a lot of these kids are going to need phones that do the group chats and the Instagram that the kids need nowadays for their social lives," Segan said.
Segan says a good option is the Moto E5 play. It's not too expensive, has good reception, battery life and a decent camera. So if the teen breaks it or loses it, you're not out hundreds of dollars.
Another good choice at this age is a used Android phone, that way you can keep the cost down and still have the apps they need and want.
High School Students
For high schoolers, Segan says they have higher needs from their phone and more social demands.
This is where the pressure is on for an iPhone, but don't go after the latest model.
"The iPhone 7, in my mind, brings everything that a high school kid needs," Segan said. "It's the least expensive iPhone model. It's absolutely fine. It has all the iPhone apps and lets them say they have an iPhone."
Preschool students
For the pre-schoolers, cell phones are not recommended. Segan says to try the 7 or 8-inch Amazon Fire tablet. It's safe, kid-friendly, has protected content and it will prepare them for this technical world we live in today.
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